How does a blood test for Magnesium work?
There may be times when a physician orders a blood test to check Magnesium levels. A Red Blood Cell (RBC) test is the most accurate way to measure it.
Magnesium is 99% in our bones and soft tissue. Only about 1% is in the blood serum. The test is usually only ordered when there is reason to believe that an individual might have a magnesium deficiency.
Symptoms of low levels of magnesium in the red blood cells include cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, and muscle cramping and weakness.
The RBC Blood Test
The RBC blood test is more sensitive to magnesium deficiencies than a standard magnesium blood test. When the body becomes magnesium deficient, it pulls the magnesium that is stored in red blood cells out of those cells and into the serum of the blood. A standard blood test, therefore, may show magnesium levels as normal even though the red blood cell’s stores of magnesium are depleted.
Monitoring Magnesium Levels
Magnesium is crucially important for bone and muscle health. Early detection and treatment of a magnesium deficiency helps to prevent the development of more chronic problems.
Monitoring your Magnesium levels and being aware of symptoms of low Magnesium is indeed important for overall health. Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in various bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function energy production and maintaining a healthy heart and immune system.
Your Individual Symptoms
It is always a good idea to be aware of your own symptoms of low Magnesium. They can include fatigue, muscle cramping, an inability to focus, insomnia, anxiety and depression. The most common reasons we see our customers using topical Magnesium every day are for pain relief, anxiety, sleep, and sore muscles.
Getting Professional Help
Be sure to consult a health care professional if you suspect you have low Magnesium levels or experience any symptoms of a deficiency. They can perform tests to determine your Magnesium status and provide guidance for you.